1

Reference Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Reference information

See Indiana salary details

$10.5K

$50K

How much do reference jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference in Indiana is $49,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reference?

Reference jobs typically refer to positions within libraries or information centers where professionals assist patrons in finding and using resources. These roles often include answering research questions, guiding users to appropriate materials, and teaching information literacy skills. Reference librarians or specialists may also help with database searches, citation management, and providing access to digital and physical collections. They play a crucial role in supporting education, research, and community needs. The required qualifications often include a degree in library science or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reference librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reference Librarian, you need strong research skills, information literacy expertise, and typically a Master's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent. Familiarity with online databases, cataloging systems like MARC, and digital reference tools is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help librarians effectively assist diverse patrons. These skills ensure accurate information delivery, efficient resource navigation, and a positive library experience for all users.

What are some common challenges faced by reference librarians and how can they be addressed?

Reference Librarians often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of diverse patron inquiries, staying updated with rapidly evolving information resources, and balancing in-person and digital reference services. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong research and communication skills, participate in ongoing professional development, and utilize collaborative tools for knowledge sharing within the library team. Building a network with colleagues and attending training sessions can also help in staying current with new databases and technology.

What is the difference between Reference vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectReferenceData Entry Clerk
Required CredentialsTypically no formal credentials, but some roles may prefer a high school diplomaHigh school diploma or equivalent often required
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, administrative or clerical rolesOffice environments, data management tasks
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for administrative supportCommon in healthcare, finance, and administrative sectors
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand administrative rolesPeople compare to clarify data management tasks

While both Reference and Data Entry Clerk roles involve administrative tasks, Reference typically refers to providing recommendations or verifying information, whereas Data Entry Clerks focus on inputting data into systems. The credentials and work environments overlap, but their primary functions differ significantly.

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Reference jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Reference job openings:

Infographic showing various Reference job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,666 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Reference and Instruction Librarian

Marion, IN • On-site

Indiana Wesleyan University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Indiana Wesleyan University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Reference and Instruction Librarian

Apply now Job no: 494850
Work type: Administrative (Full Time)
Location: Marion, IN
Categories: Administrative/Professional, Other

Job Title: Reference and Instruction Librarian

Reporting Relationship: Dean of University Libraries

Unit: IWU - Marion

Department: Library 

Campus Location: Jackson Library - Marion, IN

Summary of Position:    The Reference and Instruction Librarian is responsible for planning, providing, and assessing information literacy instruction and research support to the IWU-Marion, National and Global, and Wesley Seminary communities.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operational
    • Designs and delivers engaging information literacy instruction sessions
    • Create custom learning materials (Personalized Search Plans, tutorials, videos) for users
    • Provide personalized research consultations via in-person appointments, email, phone, and Microsoft Teams video calls for undergraduate through doctoral students
    • Oversee the acquisition and delivery of library resources to the support the needs of students, faculty, and staff 
  • Strategic
    • Serve as one of Jackson Library's leading advocates for ethical and responsible use of generative AI tools in academic research
    • Develop workshops that promote AI literacy and academic integrity
    • Participate in assessment, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration that demonstrates University Libraries' effect on student success, retention, and university learning outcomes
  • Personnel
    • Build faculty partnerships, advocate for research skills integration into course design and delivery, and lead outreach to departments with low or no library engagement
    • Collaborate with the Senior Reference Librarian to recruit, hire, train, and evaluate Student Research Assistants
    • Collaborate with academic leaders, course writers, instructional designers, program directors, and university librarians to develop and provide access to needed library resources
  • Content & Curriculum 
    • Work with faculty and library colleagues to ensure alignment of library holdings with curricula
    • Assist with Jackson Library collection development, including print, media, and electronic resources
  • Professional Development 
    • Stay current on library science research, implement needed improvements, and make recommendations to enhance services provided to students, faculty, and staff
    • Actively engage in library services professional organizations regionally and nationally
    • Maintain intellectual vitality by way of scholarly output and professional presentations at conferences and in other venues
  • Representational 
    • Represent University Libraries on various councils and committees
  • Complete other duties as assigned 

Qualifications: According to Indiana Wesleyan University employment policy all employees must possess a strong Christian commitment and adhere to the standards outlined in the IWU Community Lifestyle Statement.

Education

  • Master's degree required from an ALA accredited library and information science program; second master's degree in an IWU-offered discipline preferred

Experience

  • Minimum of two or more (2.5) years' experience working in a university library system
  • Experience in providing information literacy and professional reference services in an academic setting using emerging and traditional technologies
  • Experience working with diverse clientele, stakeholders, and colleagues

Required Skills

  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills (verbal, written, and nonverbal).
  • Strong commitment to public services
  • Able to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
  • Vibrant and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and willing to sign a statement of faith in The Wesleyan Church tradition

IWU Kingdom Diversity Statement

IWU, in covenant with God's reconciling work and in accordance with the Biblical principles of our historic Wesleyan tradition, commits to build a community that reflects Kingdom diversity.  We will foster an intentional environment for living, teaching and learning, which exhibits honor, respect, and dignity.  Acknowledging visible or invisible differences, our community authentically values each member's earthly and eternal worth.  We refute ignorance and isolation and embrace deliberate and courageous engagement that exhibits Christ's commandment to love all humankind.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER

As a religious educational institution operating under the auspices of The Wesleyan Church, Indiana Wesleyan University is permitted and reserves the right to prefer employees on the basis of religion (42 U.S.C., Sections 2000e-1 and 2000e-2).

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.

Advertised: 19 Feb 2026 US Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 27 Sep 2026 US Eastern Daylight Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Indiana Wesleyan University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom